Module summary

The module aims to introduce a variety of models that are often used in an actuarial setting, as well as several of techniques that are used to analyse these. Particular attention will be paid to their applications in an actuarial context.

The module provides opportunities for students to improve their skills in mathematical modelling of and abstracting from real-world phenomena.

Module will run

Occurrence

Teaching cycle

A

Spring Term 2020-21 to Summer Term 2020-21

Module aims

The module aims to introduce a variety of models that are often used in an actuarial setting, as well as several of techniques that are used to analyse these. Particular attention will be paid to their applications in an actuarial context.

The module provides opportunities for students to improve their skills in mathematical modelling of and abstracting from real-world phenomena.

Module learning outcomes

After successful completion the student is able to:

Subject content

explain the general principles of insurance modelling;

explain the concepts and estimation methods of survival models, lifetime distributions, the Binomial model and models of state transfers;

describe how to estimate transition intensities depending on age, exactly or using the census approximation;

calculate probabilities and moments of loss distributions;

construct risk models involving frequency and severity distributions;

explain the concept of ruin for a risk model;

describe and apply techniques for analysing a delay triangle and projecting the ultimate position;

explain the concepts of Monte Carlo simulation;

Academic and graduate skills

present analyses of various types of insurance contracts in a logical, rigorous, and concise way;

strict logical reasoning from assumptions to conclusion;

critically assess assumptions necessary to draw certain conclusions.

Module content

Principles of actuarial modelling

Markov chains

Markov processes

Survival models

Estimation procedures for lifetime distributions

Likelihood estimators for the transition densities in a Markov model

Binomial model of mortality

Estimation of transition densities depending on age

Testing crude estimates of transition densities for consistency and the process of graduation

Loss distributions, their probabilities and moments

Risk models involving frequency and severity distributions

The concept of ruin for a risk model

Techniques for analysing a delay triangle and projecting the ultimate position

Monte Carlo simulation techniques

Assessment

Task

Length

% of module mark

Essay/coursework2000 word Case Study

N/A

20

University - closed examinationActuarial Modelling

3 hours

80

Special assessment rules

None

Reassessment

Task

Length

% of module mark

University - closed examinationActuarial Modelling

3 hours

100

Module feedback

Students will receive feedback within one week of the hand-in problem sets. The feedback will be handed to students personally and takes the form of comments and suggestions for improvement written on the handed in work.

Indicative reading

Macdonald A S, An Actuarial Survey of Statistical Models for Decrement and Transition Data, British Actuarial Journal 2 (1996),

The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University is constantly exploring ways to enhance
and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules,
and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary by the University. Where appropriate, the University will
notify and consult with affected students in advance about any changes that are required in line with the University's policy on the
Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.